Thank you Dave. Very helpful. The new sails look fantastic! Question: Have you had any spider problems? If so, what have you tried? (Mid-summer now and my P18 has become a spider cruise ship or floating hotel for spiders.)
@blakegetson261513 сағат бұрын
Love the new sails
@ColoradoSailing5 сағат бұрын
@@blakegetson2615 Many thanks!! I had been wanting to add some color for a long time…
@tonybarnes385816 сағат бұрын
Thank you, very helpful.
@ColoradoSailing10 сағат бұрын
Honestly, I’m surprised there isn’t more information out there on this technique. I found an obscure article about it a couple years ago and started experimenting with it. I like it because it makes hoisting the main more relaxed when single-handed.
@paulhusbands3 күн бұрын
Good job 👍
@leegardner469213 күн бұрын
Enjoyed the hike, Dave.
@CurtisTheFlyer13 күн бұрын
I would like to suggest that angle of attack is a function of the sheet position and that twist changes the airfoil camber. More camber at light wind is similar to flaps on an aircraft taking off and landing at low speed. As wind increases a flatter airfoil works better until there is just too much power and then twist can be increased to spill lift at the top.
@ColoradoSailing12 күн бұрын
@@CurtisTheFlyer Not quite. Yes, the mainsheet controls the overall (or gross) angle of attack of the sail because it controls the position of the boom (along with the traveller, if you have one). However, with twist you can adjust the mainsail’s angle of attack along the height of the sail (from foot to head). With little twist (a closed leech) the angles of attack will be more aligned with the boom along the full height of the sail. This will give a narrow steering groove and “power up” your sail in moderate winds. With more twist (an open leech) the angles of attack change along the height of the sail-the top part of the sail is no longer aligned with the boom. This depowers the sail and provides a wider steering groove. An open leech is used both in extremely light airs (to widen the steering groove when winds are so light that it is difficult to properly trim your sail) and in heavy airs (to decrease heeling forces and/or to provide a wider steering groove in choppy seas). Twist, however, does not change the sail’s camber (also referred to as draft or chord depth). This is a common misconception. Draft in the mainsail is adjusted with the outhaul and mast bend (backstay tensioner). The forward/aft position of the draft (draft position) is set with halyard tension or the cunningham. So it is very possible to sail with a tight vang, closed leech, little twist and large draft. Conversely, it is also possible to sail with a loose vang, open leech, lots of twist and a narrow draft. I sail in a lot of heavy airs where my boat is overpowered, so narrow draft (tight outhaul, bent mast, tight halyard) and lots of twist (loose vang) is the way to go. Also keep in mind, the vang controls mainsail twist when reaching and running, but the mainsheet takes over and has more purchase to control twist when the boom is closer to centerline. ⛵️
@mariaanzaldua733914 күн бұрын
Beautiful scenery!
@JoelGlidden4321 күн бұрын
June is the end of the season in Colorado?
@ColoradoSailing21 күн бұрын
My season runs from 15 June to 15 September each year, but my channel content is about a year behind. My lake is frozen 7 months of the year, so there’s no way for me to sail and put out a video every Tuesday in real time. 😁
@JoelGlidden4321 күн бұрын
@@ColoradoSailing Got it! I'm just thinking about getting into sailing here and the timing of your video had me worried.
@ColoradoSailing20 күн бұрын
@@JoelGlidden43 Sailing in CO is great and some lakes (like Pueblo Reservoir) have much longer seasons than mine.
@tonybarnes385821 күн бұрын
We still don't have the benefit of keeping our P-18 Surprise in the water for extended periods, and after watching you wash your hull I realize there's one disadvantage to that benefit! 😄
@ColoradoSailing21 күн бұрын
Yup! Each has its pros and cons. I exclusively trailer sailed during my first season, but I made every outing an overnighter. Now I can go out to the boat and do a quick 2-hour sail. But it comes at a cost: slip fees, hull cleaning, UV damage to everything on deck and general wear and tear of bobbing in a slip 24/7 for the season…
@tonybarnes385820 күн бұрын
@@ColoradoSailing Thanks,
@darinjaneczko82521 күн бұрын
Sweet looking sails!
@ColoradoSailing21 күн бұрын
Many thanks! I’m enjoying them so far! ⛵️
@Captnwizkidd22 күн бұрын
I was at Rocking Chair fishing for my B-Day and saw you by the marina i took a pic of ya
@ColoradoSailing22 күн бұрын
Awesome! I’ve always figured there’s probably a lot of pics being snapped whenever I’m on the water. It’s a beautiful lake, but it looks even better with a sailboat on it! 😂
@leegardner630024 күн бұрын
Hey Dave, Those are beautiful sails, at a great price, only a couple hundred $$ more than my new Rolly ones for the 14.2. Look forward to seeing them fly. Hope you have a great sailing season. Lee
@scottchapman402528 күн бұрын
Beautiful sails - hope they work well for you! Hey - question, please... is there a 'break-in' period for new sails? After 'x' number of hours, do you anticipate making any rigging adjustments, etc.? Thanks!
@saabtech351028 күн бұрын
Beautiful! Those look great. I was recently looking through the sails that came with my P18 last year, and found a brand new R. Tasker main with the tag still on it. (single reef) I think the dentist that owned it during the pandemic must have bought it and I know he never got to sail the boat. The double reef main I am using is like new, so I'm not sure why he bought it. The boat also came with a 135% roller-furler Tasker genoa. I purchased a new 150% and have been using that the last few weeks. Great in light air, and easy to reduce sail even to a small triangle in heavy air, or furl completely when done for the day. After using the roller-furler I would never go back to the regular jib. It literally takes a few seconds to unfurl or furl. (I just got a whisker pole too for straight downwind wing-on-wing. The genoa really needs it especially in light air with swell.) I'm anticipating your first video with the new sails!
@ColoradoSailing28 күн бұрын
I really liked my Rolly Tasker sails. As far as furlers…I often sail in severe winds that come up without warning. The furlers are generally not as durable as the hanked-on sails and the extra lines are easily tangled in a sudden squall. When you furl it in, the sail shape is not as efficient as a dedicated hanked on sail of the same size (I carry a 100% jib and an 80% jib). But, if I sailed in calmer winds and did a more relaxed type of sailing, yes, I’d definitely get a roller furler. ⛵️
@darinjaneczko82528 күн бұрын
Those look great! I’m looking forward to your next video with the new sails.
@blakegetson261528 күн бұрын
I need new sails for my P18. These are beautiful.
@ColoradoSailing28 күн бұрын
Chip Buck at Point Sails knows the Precision line of boats very well. He’s done P-165, P-16, P-18 and P-27 sails for owners that I know personally. And being able to customize colors, cloth weight, reefing points, etc is great!
@9b85e5da6dАй бұрын
Did you make your top hatch rails? Are they Starboard? Mine are teak and a bit weathered. Just purchased my P18 about 2 weeks ago.
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
Precision switched from wood to starboard in the newer boats (mine is a 2010). Bill at Precision still sells a lot of the parts. Some owners have also had custom work done by a company called PlasTEAK Inc. which makes HDPE in wood color tones.
@jacobshirley7155Ай бұрын
What places do you recommend for sailing in Colorado?
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
It depends on what you’re looking for. If you want restaurants and facilities: Grand Lake or Dillion Reservoir. Lots of space and boat camping: Blue Mesa Reservoir or Granby Lake. Close to Denver: Carter, Chatfield, Horsetooth. Warmer water: Pueblo Reservoir. There’s something for everyone!
@jacobshirley7155Ай бұрын
@@ColoradoSailing thanks!
@dreamtimesvАй бұрын
Magic sail, beautiful lake and surrounds. Thanks for sharing your experience. Best.
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
Many thanks for the kind words! It was my best sail of the season!
@JohnCornellierАй бұрын
No topping lift when you lower the main halyard? I guess the rig's light enough you don't need it? Also how are you getting backhaul on the reefed clews, or did I miss something?
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
The topping lift is a thin 1/8” white line at the end of the boom (can be seen in several parts of the video). As far as outhaul tension when reefed, the cheek blocks on the boom are set a few inches aft of the leech reef grommets…so outhaul tension is provided by pulling tightly on the jiffy reef line. Obviously limited in the amount of tension that can be applied since it’s 1:1…but also less canvas to try to stretch flat since the foot gets shorter. Here’s a video that covers the features and standard sail controls of the P-18: kzread.info/dash/bejne/h66jsZl7hZWZZJc.htmlsi=L76B1gT4Slz6MAGb
@JohnCornellierАй бұрын
@@ColoradoSailing Hi! Ah, I guess I was expecting it to be mentioned since I usually raise mine to add some slack to the main. Maybe that's not necessary? Mine's a 24ft and otherwise the sail seems to take over the cockpit. But I'm a noob and maybe I'm not flaking it well. OK, the blocks are aft of the clew? Didn't notice that either. I bought an old boat from the 1960s that's missing quite a few parts (or maybe never had them) and I'm trying to figure this part out. Literally all ll I have on the boom is one horn cleat aft and an eye for the topping lift. I just untie the clew and manually retie at the new reefed clew. Likewise I just tie the new tack down with a scrap of line around the gooseneck. Awkward but doable. How are the reefing hooks attached? On the boom directly, or the goosneck or the mast? Great video and a lovely boat, thanks, I learned something.
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
@@JohnCornellier On the P-18, if you set the topping lift just right, it will have just a slight bit of slack when the mainsail is fully hoisted. So when the main is down, the weight of the boom transfers to the topping lift, but when you hoist the main then the topping lift has some slack and the thin line blows away from the leech. In this way, the topping lift never needs any adjustment. It helps that the OEM sails on the P-18 have a straight cut with no roach in the leech, so the topping lift does not get snagged. For the reefing hook, there are several ways to attach them. Mine is pinned to the side of the gooseneck with the same pin that holds the boom. There are others that sit on top of the gooseneck and also are pinned. And then others are bolted or riveted to the starboard side of the boom. If you use a pin, you may need to order one a bit longer than the one in the gooseneck as it will not fit with the reefing hook added. Pins on your boat should never be replaced with bolts--as they are not as strong. You can also use a "dog bone" which is a strap with hooks on it. Might wanna think about adding separate jiffy reef lines wiht cheek blocks or at least integrating a quick release snap shackle instead of retying knots.
@JS-tz4crАй бұрын
Have you ever thought about sailing the Puget sound?(Washington state)? Here’s a perfect opportunity for you. Salish 100! July 18-25, 2024
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
I’ve been keeping pretty busy sailing CO, WY, UT and NM. This year I’m heading to South Dakota to meet up with a group of fellow Precision 18 owners.
@GONCALAVERAАй бұрын
Beautiful spot!
@JeffreysGrabItAndGrowlАй бұрын
Which boat are you out on? The Precision?
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
Yup…out on our 2010 Precision 18. ⛵️
@saabtech3510Ай бұрын
I was just able to get a marina slip that goes till Oct. 15. In the Spring it starts April 15. But our elevation is quite a bit less here. 🙂
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
Wow!! That’s awesome! Congrats on the slip. That’s a nice long season as well. Enjoy!
@tonybarnes3858Ай бұрын
Fun timing on this video, at least for me. Yesterday (6/3/24) we had Surprise out for our season opener, on Mt. Storm Lake, Grant Co. WV, about 45 min. from home, elev. 3180 ft. It could have been earlier but juggling schedules with crew is a factor. We had a guest/crew, very experienced in delivering bigger sailboats up and down the Atlantic seaboard. Eventually, as an afterthought he took out his phone, with Navionics, and to our surprise our lake data was available. We had a nice sail in calmish conditions, planning the rest of our summer thru fall season. As always, thanks.
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
My marina opens 15 June…can’t wait. Obviously, I’m about 9 months behind on my videos!! 😆
@RobHarenАй бұрын
I just bought a 2002 P15 CB. It looks like brand new, bright shiny Gel coat. the only thing I had to do was replace the hatch cover as it was sun damaged and cracked. I bought a full cover for it from SLO sails and the boat just looks great.
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
Congrats on the new boat! Please be sure to join the “Precision Sailboat Owners” Facebook group. You can compare notes, share adventures, and pick the brains of over 800 very helpful Precision owners.
@mikehogan1827Ай бұрын
Good job explaining. Thanks.
@sailorjmp1Ай бұрын
I used Taco Marine for replacement. Use a heat gun. Great video Dave!
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
Many thanks!! 😁
@00twentyfour96Ай бұрын
Great graphic on what the construction of the joint looks like. If anyone has a source for a replacement rub rail that would be great, since Precision no longer stocks them.
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
I’ve heard Taco Marine offers one that is pretty close. I was lucky to salvage a spare from a 2013 P-18 that got totaled.
@tonybarnes3858Ай бұрын
Thanks Dave.
@saabtech3510Ай бұрын
Hi Dave. I did the cam cleat upgrade. It really makes adjusting the centerboard easy. Question. We just had our P18 out for a first shakedown sail and overnight. kzread.info/dash/bejne/p5eHrdamgNrMkrg.html When the waves were getting bigger, we would get water coming up the tube for the centerboard line, into the cockpit. Also coming in the cockpit drains at times into the cockpit (and draining back out). Is this common? Also, it appears the tube leaked water into the bilge. I see tape at the top, so I suspect the hose at the top needs attention. Also, I remember in one of your videos you mentioned an insert for the mast gate. A source for that would be great if you can point me in the right direction. (Bobbing about in big swell on Lake Ontario is not the time for lugs to be escaping the mast when trying to lower sail or reef!) Any tips/insight would be appreciated!
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
The only time I’ve had water coming up the tube for the CB line is when moving really fast. I have not had water coming into the cockpit drains except maybe when three people are all standing at the stern. Was the boat really loaded up with gear? I’ve heard of someone who sailed a P-18 in the Florida panhandle with 7 people aboard…but I try to keep mine light. For the mast gate, take a look at mastgates.com. Tom Loque will fabricate something to fit your boat.
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
Wow!! Looks like you were really moving!! Nice vid!
@saabtech3510Ай бұрын
@@ColoradoSailing Thank you Dave. Yes, loaded up quite a bit. Two big coolers, gear, and in the stern 3 batteries, an outboard, a trolling motor, and a couple gallons of fuel.
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
@@saabtech3510 that will do it. Probably made her a bit more mannerly in the winds, but be careful that your gear is secured and doesn’t all shift to the low side when heeling. It could keep her from righting herself.
@saabtech3510Ай бұрын
@@ColoradoSailing Thank you Dave. Yes, I'm conscious of any potential shifts of gear etc. I did also just remember that I was told one of the past owners put some extra ballast in the bilge. I'll have to investigate and see if I can pull it out of there. (supposed to be lead in bottles connected by line or something) Since we will be doing overnight sails at times, with more provisions etc, or day sailing with family, we really don't want extra weight I don't think. And I think I remember you asking the designer about extra ballast, and he did not like the idea.
@9b85e5da6dАй бұрын
It would have been nice to have seen how far the tow vehicles wheels were from the water.
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
The rear wheels of the tow vehicle were in the water right up to the bottom of the rim. That’s pretty standard for any place I’ve launched the boat. The tow vehicle is an F-150 with 33” tires.
@AnnieSchwagerАй бұрын
I tried a similar ladder on the bow of our open-bowed ski boat. I swung into the hull and it was very difficult. Does this really work and not swing in?
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
It does swing in. You definitely need to use some arm strength pulling up on the bow pulpit. But before, I had no foothold at all and I was swinging one leg on the deck and wrestling my way up. Having a place to put your foot makes a huge difference. If you want something that won’t swing…you’ll need a rigid ladder that has supports that press on the bow.
@darb4091Ай бұрын
Looks like another 12inches on the tiller would be handy for solo sailing, or perhaps a tiller clutch?
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
I’m gonna try a Ronstan Battlestick tiller extension this year. Hoping it will let me sit a bit more forward (for weight distribution and also easier handling of jib sheets) and let me lean out toward the rail more (to counter heel). But generally, after 4 seasons on the boat, I’ve been really happy with how the boat is set up for solo sailing. The addition last year of a backstay tensioner was a major upgrade.
@willieerwin823Ай бұрын
Very Beautiful boat
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
Thank you!! Going on my 5th season with the boat…and just falling in love with her even more! 😍
@michaelstith3196Ай бұрын
Dave, how did you remove the fouling mill foil?
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
I usually try snagging it with the boat hook while underway first, but did not work in this case. It has to be trailing pretty far behind the boat to grab it. I ended up tilting the boat by attaching a utility line to the main halyard, pulling the boat over, and securing the line to the dock. Then snagging the millfoil with the boat hook. Here’s a video of the removal technique from an earlier fouling: kzread.info/dash/bejne/fYihu7pvZruYdNI.htmlsi=eFA7OPVodH10B2Qm
@saabtech3510Ай бұрын
We can get waterspouts here, but no dust devils. (I've seen some snow devils too.) Over the Summer those weeds can grow into a forest. Interesting effect causing the the lee helm. Good to know. Thanks!
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
Snow devil!? I’d love to see one of those!!
@huntsail3727Ай бұрын
Interesting, thanks for posting.
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
Sailing in the mountains is always an adventure!! 😆
@tonybarnes3858Ай бұрын
"The devil you know..." Guess it's not a waterspout until it brings down moisture from a cloud. Dust devils have, yep, dust. Steam devil?
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
I believe dust devils and waterspouts are the same phenomenon…one over land and one over water. But it’s a lot easier to stir up some dust than to lift up water from the surface of a lake or ocean. So I’m *guessing* only the most powerful dust devils would become waterspouts. A bit of Google searching says dust devils range from 45-60 mph winds and waterspouts need at least 50 mph. 🤷🏻♂️
@MoD_Master_Of_Disaster_Ай бұрын
Being a dutchie, the first thing I see is red. white, blue Holland.
@ColoradoSailing6 күн бұрын
Hup hup!
@liamstone3437Ай бұрын
I have read that the sail ties should not be tied around the boom but are intended to be used to bundle the main so it does not sag into the cockpit. The danger is that strong gusts will tear the unreinforced center of the main. I know you said tie them loosely but how would it work for you if you were to do as above? Would it work as well for you? I am getting my new sail with reef points installed so am getting prepared to rig a reefing system hence my research.
@ColoradoSailingАй бұрын
The foot of the OEM Rolly Tasker sail on the P-18 has a bolt rope that is inserted in a track along the boom. So there’s no gap between the sail and the boom. On a bolt rope sail, the only way to tie the reefing ties is to go around the boom. On a loose footed sail, you could just tie around the flaked sail if that was your preference, but the reefing tie points are reinforced and pretty durable. As long as the jiffy reef line at the leech is pulled tight to tighten the foot, similar to an outhaul line (albeit with much less purchase since it’s a 1:1 arrangement) there should be no worries of damaging the sails with loosely tied reef ties.
@saabtech35102 ай бұрын
It's interesting then when the water is confused, reflecting the shifting wind. The old waves still there while new ones begin to form from the new direction. The worst is when the wind completely quits, yet there are still waves to make the sails slat about.
@ColoradoSailing2 ай бұрын
It definitely throws me off when the winds and wave directions are not synched. Since my lake is small, I usually head downwind when the winds pick up and then turn around and have fun beating into the wind and built up waves! 🌊 ⛵️
@BuildFixGo2 ай бұрын
I didn’t know Colorado lakes had anything other than shifty winds! An accidental jibe is always a moment away 😂
@ColoradoSailing2 ай бұрын
Sometimes we get good steady winds…but normally its light wind in the morning, dead calm from noon to 2pm and then it’s “hold on tight” until sunset!! 😂😂😂
@rickprice65272 ай бұрын
Great idea!
@ColoradoSailing2 ай бұрын
What can I say…it’s super relaxing! 😎😂
@JonSmith-uo6lt2 ай бұрын
Thank you random KZread guy! I appreciate your help
@huntsail37272 ай бұрын
Good tips, will work for most boats, particularly trailer sailors. Great job!
@ColoradoSailing2 ай бұрын
Many thanks! Glad you enjoyed it. 😁
@JB-rt4mx2 ай бұрын
Cheesman Res. ?? 🤔🙂
@ColoradoSailing2 ай бұрын
It’s Elevenmile Canyon Reservoir. 😁⛵️
@coalfieldbeelovergerald36872 ай бұрын
Just absolutely gorgeous Dave !
@ColoradoSailing2 ай бұрын
Thank you!! Had been saving that little clip since September and finally got my inspiration after seeing the new Bob Marley movie! 😂🍿
@chuey8552 ай бұрын
I'm getting ready for my first sail of the season this weekend. Your video got me even more stoked!
@ColoradoSailing2 ай бұрын
I’m jealous. Our season doesn’t start until June 15th when the marina opens…
@chuey8552 ай бұрын
@@ColoradoSailingmight be for the best in order to avoid those Colorado hurricanes :) It hit 90MPH at Carter a few weeks ago from what I understand.
@ColoradoSailing2 ай бұрын
@@chuey855 Spring along the front range!
@JB-rt4mx2 ай бұрын
Carter Lake, might want to get a lightweight 150% genoa
@ColoradoSailing2 ай бұрын
I’ve sailed 6 lakes in Colorado, but have not been to Carter Lake yet. I tend to sail the more remote lakes…further away from the population centers. With a very high sail area to displacement ratio (SA/disp) of 21.81, the 100% working jib I have has been plenty. The Precision 18 is an excellent light air performer, but is quickly overpowered as the winds pick up. I also fly a smaller 80% jib for heavy air.
Пікірлер
Thank you Dave. Very helpful. The new sails look fantastic! Question: Have you had any spider problems? If so, what have you tried? (Mid-summer now and my P18 has become a spider cruise ship or floating hotel for spiders.)
Love the new sails
@@blakegetson2615 Many thanks!! I had been wanting to add some color for a long time…
Thank you, very helpful.
Honestly, I’m surprised there isn’t more information out there on this technique. I found an obscure article about it a couple years ago and started experimenting with it. I like it because it makes hoisting the main more relaxed when single-handed.
Good job 👍
Enjoyed the hike, Dave.
I would like to suggest that angle of attack is a function of the sheet position and that twist changes the airfoil camber. More camber at light wind is similar to flaps on an aircraft taking off and landing at low speed. As wind increases a flatter airfoil works better until there is just too much power and then twist can be increased to spill lift at the top.
@@CurtisTheFlyer Not quite. Yes, the mainsheet controls the overall (or gross) angle of attack of the sail because it controls the position of the boom (along with the traveller, if you have one). However, with twist you can adjust the mainsail’s angle of attack along the height of the sail (from foot to head). With little twist (a closed leech) the angles of attack will be more aligned with the boom along the full height of the sail. This will give a narrow steering groove and “power up” your sail in moderate winds. With more twist (an open leech) the angles of attack change along the height of the sail-the top part of the sail is no longer aligned with the boom. This depowers the sail and provides a wider steering groove. An open leech is used both in extremely light airs (to widen the steering groove when winds are so light that it is difficult to properly trim your sail) and in heavy airs (to decrease heeling forces and/or to provide a wider steering groove in choppy seas). Twist, however, does not change the sail’s camber (also referred to as draft or chord depth). This is a common misconception. Draft in the mainsail is adjusted with the outhaul and mast bend (backstay tensioner). The forward/aft position of the draft (draft position) is set with halyard tension or the cunningham. So it is very possible to sail with a tight vang, closed leech, little twist and large draft. Conversely, it is also possible to sail with a loose vang, open leech, lots of twist and a narrow draft. I sail in a lot of heavy airs where my boat is overpowered, so narrow draft (tight outhaul, bent mast, tight halyard) and lots of twist (loose vang) is the way to go. Also keep in mind, the vang controls mainsail twist when reaching and running, but the mainsheet takes over and has more purchase to control twist when the boom is closer to centerline. ⛵️
Beautiful scenery!
June is the end of the season in Colorado?
My season runs from 15 June to 15 September each year, but my channel content is about a year behind. My lake is frozen 7 months of the year, so there’s no way for me to sail and put out a video every Tuesday in real time. 😁
@@ColoradoSailing Got it! I'm just thinking about getting into sailing here and the timing of your video had me worried.
@@JoelGlidden43 Sailing in CO is great and some lakes (like Pueblo Reservoir) have much longer seasons than mine.
We still don't have the benefit of keeping our P-18 Surprise in the water for extended periods, and after watching you wash your hull I realize there's one disadvantage to that benefit! 😄
Yup! Each has its pros and cons. I exclusively trailer sailed during my first season, but I made every outing an overnighter. Now I can go out to the boat and do a quick 2-hour sail. But it comes at a cost: slip fees, hull cleaning, UV damage to everything on deck and general wear and tear of bobbing in a slip 24/7 for the season…
@@ColoradoSailing Thanks,
Sweet looking sails!
Many thanks! I’m enjoying them so far! ⛵️
I was at Rocking Chair fishing for my B-Day and saw you by the marina i took a pic of ya
Awesome! I’ve always figured there’s probably a lot of pics being snapped whenever I’m on the water. It’s a beautiful lake, but it looks even better with a sailboat on it! 😂
Hey Dave, Those are beautiful sails, at a great price, only a couple hundred $$ more than my new Rolly ones for the 14.2. Look forward to seeing them fly. Hope you have a great sailing season. Lee
Beautiful sails - hope they work well for you! Hey - question, please... is there a 'break-in' period for new sails? After 'x' number of hours, do you anticipate making any rigging adjustments, etc.? Thanks!
Beautiful! Those look great. I was recently looking through the sails that came with my P18 last year, and found a brand new R. Tasker main with the tag still on it. (single reef) I think the dentist that owned it during the pandemic must have bought it and I know he never got to sail the boat. The double reef main I am using is like new, so I'm not sure why he bought it. The boat also came with a 135% roller-furler Tasker genoa. I purchased a new 150% and have been using that the last few weeks. Great in light air, and easy to reduce sail even to a small triangle in heavy air, or furl completely when done for the day. After using the roller-furler I would never go back to the regular jib. It literally takes a few seconds to unfurl or furl. (I just got a whisker pole too for straight downwind wing-on-wing. The genoa really needs it especially in light air with swell.) I'm anticipating your first video with the new sails!
I really liked my Rolly Tasker sails. As far as furlers…I often sail in severe winds that come up without warning. The furlers are generally not as durable as the hanked-on sails and the extra lines are easily tangled in a sudden squall. When you furl it in, the sail shape is not as efficient as a dedicated hanked on sail of the same size (I carry a 100% jib and an 80% jib). But, if I sailed in calmer winds and did a more relaxed type of sailing, yes, I’d definitely get a roller furler. ⛵️
Those look great! I’m looking forward to your next video with the new sails.
I need new sails for my P18. These are beautiful.
Chip Buck at Point Sails knows the Precision line of boats very well. He’s done P-165, P-16, P-18 and P-27 sails for owners that I know personally. And being able to customize colors, cloth weight, reefing points, etc is great!
Did you make your top hatch rails? Are they Starboard? Mine are teak and a bit weathered. Just purchased my P18 about 2 weeks ago.
Precision switched from wood to starboard in the newer boats (mine is a 2010). Bill at Precision still sells a lot of the parts. Some owners have also had custom work done by a company called PlasTEAK Inc. which makes HDPE in wood color tones.
What places do you recommend for sailing in Colorado?
It depends on what you’re looking for. If you want restaurants and facilities: Grand Lake or Dillion Reservoir. Lots of space and boat camping: Blue Mesa Reservoir or Granby Lake. Close to Denver: Carter, Chatfield, Horsetooth. Warmer water: Pueblo Reservoir. There’s something for everyone!
@@ColoradoSailing thanks!
Magic sail, beautiful lake and surrounds. Thanks for sharing your experience. Best.
Many thanks for the kind words! It was my best sail of the season!
No topping lift when you lower the main halyard? I guess the rig's light enough you don't need it? Also how are you getting backhaul on the reefed clews, or did I miss something?
The topping lift is a thin 1/8” white line at the end of the boom (can be seen in several parts of the video). As far as outhaul tension when reefed, the cheek blocks on the boom are set a few inches aft of the leech reef grommets…so outhaul tension is provided by pulling tightly on the jiffy reef line. Obviously limited in the amount of tension that can be applied since it’s 1:1…but also less canvas to try to stretch flat since the foot gets shorter. Here’s a video that covers the features and standard sail controls of the P-18: kzread.info/dash/bejne/h66jsZl7hZWZZJc.htmlsi=L76B1gT4Slz6MAGb
@@ColoradoSailing Hi! Ah, I guess I was expecting it to be mentioned since I usually raise mine to add some slack to the main. Maybe that's not necessary? Mine's a 24ft and otherwise the sail seems to take over the cockpit. But I'm a noob and maybe I'm not flaking it well. OK, the blocks are aft of the clew? Didn't notice that either. I bought an old boat from the 1960s that's missing quite a few parts (or maybe never had them) and I'm trying to figure this part out. Literally all ll I have on the boom is one horn cleat aft and an eye for the topping lift. I just untie the clew and manually retie at the new reefed clew. Likewise I just tie the new tack down with a scrap of line around the gooseneck. Awkward but doable. How are the reefing hooks attached? On the boom directly, or the goosneck or the mast? Great video and a lovely boat, thanks, I learned something.
@@JohnCornellier On the P-18, if you set the topping lift just right, it will have just a slight bit of slack when the mainsail is fully hoisted. So when the main is down, the weight of the boom transfers to the topping lift, but when you hoist the main then the topping lift has some slack and the thin line blows away from the leech. In this way, the topping lift never needs any adjustment. It helps that the OEM sails on the P-18 have a straight cut with no roach in the leech, so the topping lift does not get snagged. For the reefing hook, there are several ways to attach them. Mine is pinned to the side of the gooseneck with the same pin that holds the boom. There are others that sit on top of the gooseneck and also are pinned. And then others are bolted or riveted to the starboard side of the boom. If you use a pin, you may need to order one a bit longer than the one in the gooseneck as it will not fit with the reefing hook added. Pins on your boat should never be replaced with bolts--as they are not as strong. You can also use a "dog bone" which is a strap with hooks on it. Might wanna think about adding separate jiffy reef lines wiht cheek blocks or at least integrating a quick release snap shackle instead of retying knots.
Have you ever thought about sailing the Puget sound?(Washington state)? Here’s a perfect opportunity for you. Salish 100! July 18-25, 2024
I’ve been keeping pretty busy sailing CO, WY, UT and NM. This year I’m heading to South Dakota to meet up with a group of fellow Precision 18 owners.
Beautiful spot!
Which boat are you out on? The Precision?
Yup…out on our 2010 Precision 18. ⛵️
I was just able to get a marina slip that goes till Oct. 15. In the Spring it starts April 15. But our elevation is quite a bit less here. 🙂
Wow!! That’s awesome! Congrats on the slip. That’s a nice long season as well. Enjoy!
Fun timing on this video, at least for me. Yesterday (6/3/24) we had Surprise out for our season opener, on Mt. Storm Lake, Grant Co. WV, about 45 min. from home, elev. 3180 ft. It could have been earlier but juggling schedules with crew is a factor. We had a guest/crew, very experienced in delivering bigger sailboats up and down the Atlantic seaboard. Eventually, as an afterthought he took out his phone, with Navionics, and to our surprise our lake data was available. We had a nice sail in calmish conditions, planning the rest of our summer thru fall season. As always, thanks.
My marina opens 15 June…can’t wait. Obviously, I’m about 9 months behind on my videos!! 😆
I just bought a 2002 P15 CB. It looks like brand new, bright shiny Gel coat. the only thing I had to do was replace the hatch cover as it was sun damaged and cracked. I bought a full cover for it from SLO sails and the boat just looks great.
Congrats on the new boat! Please be sure to join the “Precision Sailboat Owners” Facebook group. You can compare notes, share adventures, and pick the brains of over 800 very helpful Precision owners.
Good job explaining. Thanks.
I used Taco Marine for replacement. Use a heat gun. Great video Dave!
Many thanks!! 😁
Great graphic on what the construction of the joint looks like. If anyone has a source for a replacement rub rail that would be great, since Precision no longer stocks them.
I’ve heard Taco Marine offers one that is pretty close. I was lucky to salvage a spare from a 2013 P-18 that got totaled.
Thanks Dave.
Hi Dave. I did the cam cleat upgrade. It really makes adjusting the centerboard easy. Question. We just had our P18 out for a first shakedown sail and overnight. kzread.info/dash/bejne/p5eHrdamgNrMkrg.html When the waves were getting bigger, we would get water coming up the tube for the centerboard line, into the cockpit. Also coming in the cockpit drains at times into the cockpit (and draining back out). Is this common? Also, it appears the tube leaked water into the bilge. I see tape at the top, so I suspect the hose at the top needs attention. Also, I remember in one of your videos you mentioned an insert for the mast gate. A source for that would be great if you can point me in the right direction. (Bobbing about in big swell on Lake Ontario is not the time for lugs to be escaping the mast when trying to lower sail or reef!) Any tips/insight would be appreciated!
The only time I’ve had water coming up the tube for the CB line is when moving really fast. I have not had water coming into the cockpit drains except maybe when three people are all standing at the stern. Was the boat really loaded up with gear? I’ve heard of someone who sailed a P-18 in the Florida panhandle with 7 people aboard…but I try to keep mine light. For the mast gate, take a look at mastgates.com. Tom Loque will fabricate something to fit your boat.
Wow!! Looks like you were really moving!! Nice vid!
@@ColoradoSailing Thank you Dave. Yes, loaded up quite a bit. Two big coolers, gear, and in the stern 3 batteries, an outboard, a trolling motor, and a couple gallons of fuel.
@@saabtech3510 that will do it. Probably made her a bit more mannerly in the winds, but be careful that your gear is secured and doesn’t all shift to the low side when heeling. It could keep her from righting herself.
@@ColoradoSailing Thank you Dave. Yes, I'm conscious of any potential shifts of gear etc. I did also just remember that I was told one of the past owners put some extra ballast in the bilge. I'll have to investigate and see if I can pull it out of there. (supposed to be lead in bottles connected by line or something) Since we will be doing overnight sails at times, with more provisions etc, or day sailing with family, we really don't want extra weight I don't think. And I think I remember you asking the designer about extra ballast, and he did not like the idea.
It would have been nice to have seen how far the tow vehicles wheels were from the water.
The rear wheels of the tow vehicle were in the water right up to the bottom of the rim. That’s pretty standard for any place I’ve launched the boat. The tow vehicle is an F-150 with 33” tires.
I tried a similar ladder on the bow of our open-bowed ski boat. I swung into the hull and it was very difficult. Does this really work and not swing in?
It does swing in. You definitely need to use some arm strength pulling up on the bow pulpit. But before, I had no foothold at all and I was swinging one leg on the deck and wrestling my way up. Having a place to put your foot makes a huge difference. If you want something that won’t swing…you’ll need a rigid ladder that has supports that press on the bow.
Looks like another 12inches on the tiller would be handy for solo sailing, or perhaps a tiller clutch?
I’m gonna try a Ronstan Battlestick tiller extension this year. Hoping it will let me sit a bit more forward (for weight distribution and also easier handling of jib sheets) and let me lean out toward the rail more (to counter heel). But generally, after 4 seasons on the boat, I’ve been really happy with how the boat is set up for solo sailing. The addition last year of a backstay tensioner was a major upgrade.
Very Beautiful boat
Thank you!! Going on my 5th season with the boat…and just falling in love with her even more! 😍
Dave, how did you remove the fouling mill foil?
I usually try snagging it with the boat hook while underway first, but did not work in this case. It has to be trailing pretty far behind the boat to grab it. I ended up tilting the boat by attaching a utility line to the main halyard, pulling the boat over, and securing the line to the dock. Then snagging the millfoil with the boat hook. Here’s a video of the removal technique from an earlier fouling: kzread.info/dash/bejne/fYihu7pvZruYdNI.htmlsi=eFA7OPVodH10B2Qm
We can get waterspouts here, but no dust devils. (I've seen some snow devils too.) Over the Summer those weeds can grow into a forest. Interesting effect causing the the lee helm. Good to know. Thanks!
Snow devil!? I’d love to see one of those!!
Interesting, thanks for posting.
Sailing in the mountains is always an adventure!! 😆
"The devil you know..." Guess it's not a waterspout until it brings down moisture from a cloud. Dust devils have, yep, dust. Steam devil?
I believe dust devils and waterspouts are the same phenomenon…one over land and one over water. But it’s a lot easier to stir up some dust than to lift up water from the surface of a lake or ocean. So I’m *guessing* only the most powerful dust devils would become waterspouts. A bit of Google searching says dust devils range from 45-60 mph winds and waterspouts need at least 50 mph. 🤷🏻♂️
Being a dutchie, the first thing I see is red. white, blue Holland.
Hup hup!
I have read that the sail ties should not be tied around the boom but are intended to be used to bundle the main so it does not sag into the cockpit. The danger is that strong gusts will tear the unreinforced center of the main. I know you said tie them loosely but how would it work for you if you were to do as above? Would it work as well for you? I am getting my new sail with reef points installed so am getting prepared to rig a reefing system hence my research.
The foot of the OEM Rolly Tasker sail on the P-18 has a bolt rope that is inserted in a track along the boom. So there’s no gap between the sail and the boom. On a bolt rope sail, the only way to tie the reefing ties is to go around the boom. On a loose footed sail, you could just tie around the flaked sail if that was your preference, but the reefing tie points are reinforced and pretty durable. As long as the jiffy reef line at the leech is pulled tight to tighten the foot, similar to an outhaul line (albeit with much less purchase since it’s a 1:1 arrangement) there should be no worries of damaging the sails with loosely tied reef ties.
It's interesting then when the water is confused, reflecting the shifting wind. The old waves still there while new ones begin to form from the new direction. The worst is when the wind completely quits, yet there are still waves to make the sails slat about.
It definitely throws me off when the winds and wave directions are not synched. Since my lake is small, I usually head downwind when the winds pick up and then turn around and have fun beating into the wind and built up waves! 🌊 ⛵️
I didn’t know Colorado lakes had anything other than shifty winds! An accidental jibe is always a moment away 😂
Sometimes we get good steady winds…but normally its light wind in the morning, dead calm from noon to 2pm and then it’s “hold on tight” until sunset!! 😂😂😂
Great idea!
What can I say…it’s super relaxing! 😎😂
Thank you random KZread guy! I appreciate your help
Good tips, will work for most boats, particularly trailer sailors. Great job!
Many thanks! Glad you enjoyed it. 😁
Cheesman Res. ?? 🤔🙂
It’s Elevenmile Canyon Reservoir. 😁⛵️
Just absolutely gorgeous Dave !
Thank you!! Had been saving that little clip since September and finally got my inspiration after seeing the new Bob Marley movie! 😂🍿
I'm getting ready for my first sail of the season this weekend. Your video got me even more stoked!
I’m jealous. Our season doesn’t start until June 15th when the marina opens…
@@ColoradoSailingmight be for the best in order to avoid those Colorado hurricanes :) It hit 90MPH at Carter a few weeks ago from what I understand.
@@chuey855 Spring along the front range!
Carter Lake, might want to get a lightweight 150% genoa
I’ve sailed 6 lakes in Colorado, but have not been to Carter Lake yet. I tend to sail the more remote lakes…further away from the population centers. With a very high sail area to displacement ratio (SA/disp) of 21.81, the 100% working jib I have has been plenty. The Precision 18 is an excellent light air performer, but is quickly overpowered as the winds pick up. I also fly a smaller 80% jib for heavy air.